LONDON (FOX 13) - Instead of whitening your teeth, charcoal toothpaste could be damaging them, according to a new study.
The research was published in the British Dental Journal describing the addition of activated charcoal in toothpaste is a "marketing gimmick." Researchers said the charcoal could cause permanent tooth discoloration and decay.
The study also found many charcoal toothpastes lack fluoride, an ingredient which protects teeth from rotting. Researchers said the few charcoal toothpastes with fluoride can still be harmful due to its ability to absorb other substances.
Charcoal toothpastes were also found to contain high levels of abrasives which researchers said wears away tooth enamel and hurts your gums.
LINK: The study can be found on Nature’s website.